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Cozy Slow Cooker Wassail: 5-Ingredient Easy Cranberry & Cloves Punch

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A simple, comforting holiday punch made in a slow cooker with apple cider, cranberries, and warm spices. This easy recipe requires minimal prep and delivers a festive, spiced flavor perfect for winter gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 64 oz (1.9 liters) 100% pure apple cider
  • 12 oz (340g) fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1 teaspoon whole cloves
  • 1 large cinnamon stick
  • 1 medium orange (peel only)
  • 1 piece star anise (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash the orange thoroughly and use a vegetable peeler to remove strips of the peel, avoiding too much bitter white pith. Rinse fresh cranberries if using.
  2. Pour the apple cider into a 4-to-6-quart slow cooker.
  3. Add the cranberries, orange peels, cinnamon stick, whole cloves, and star anise (if using).
  4. Add brown sugar or maple syrup if desired and stir gently to distribute.
  5. Cover and cook on HIGH for 2 hours or LOW for 4 hours.
  6. Turn the slow cooker to WARM and let steep for an additional 1 to 2 hours to infuse flavors.
  7. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer if a clear punch is preferred, or serve with fruit for a rustic look.
  8. Ladle into mugs and garnish with fresh orange slices or cinnamon sticks. Serve immediately.

Notes

Do not cook on HIGH for more than 6 hours to prevent burning. If using a glass lid, condensation will drip back into the pot, which is normal. Taste the cider before adding sweetener as brands vary in sweetness. For a spiked version, add 1 oz of dark rum or bourbon to individual mugs before serving. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker wassail, cranberry punch, holiday drinks, apple cider recipe, winter beverages, gluten-free drinks, vegan punch

Find it online: https://shimmersnack.com/cozy-slow-cooker-wassail-5-ingredient-easy-cranberry-and-cloves-punch/